For the first quarter of 2015 (January – March), I’ve decided to adopt a “low buy” policy when it comes to beauty-related items. You’ve probably heard of no-buys where one restricts ones purchases to only essential items like running out of cotton pads or face wash. And Low Buys are probably just as common – though individuals have different parameters for how they will restrict themselves.

Although I did some heavier than usual spending towards the end of last year, this decision was not prompted by budget (though I absolutely do have one), as much as it was by my desire to foster greater appreciation for what I already have. To be clear, I do not think I over spent or that I’m out of control. More like, overwhelmed. While shopping the early Spring 2015 makeup collections online (of which there are many), I suddenly became very overwhelmed. Usually, I have no problems deciding what is “worth it” to me and, therefore, what I will purchase. But I found myself paralyzed by indecision. I think that this was partially due to the fact that, obviously, I have no need for anything.

The situation called for me to develop some guidelines for myself – which I did. I decided to limit my purchases only to those items that truly peaked my interest. Not just because they were new or limited – but because they stirred in me a distinct and recognizable urge like, “oh, I really want to try that”. Now, you might think that feeling happens often. But actually, once I really made myself conscience of it – it didn’t happen as often as I thought.

Moving beyond the early Spring releases, I’ve decided to apply this approach to the first three months of the year and see how I do. Additionally, I’m adding a few more “guidelines” which include: 1) No more than one shopping trip a week (even just to browse); 2) Not justifying mass purchases just because I’m abroad and have access to different brands and 3) Not purchasing just because of an awesome GWP – unless, of course, I really want them items despite the extra perks.

You’ll see some Hauls in the next few weeks of purchases I’d made in December or gifts I’d received. And I will be making new purchases, this isn’t a no-buy after all. But I’m hoping to get back to a place where I am more conscience about my purchases.

On another note, as you may know if you’ve been around a while, in addition to stand alone posts, I feature some themed posts/series here on Beauty Isles. I’m trying to organise and streamline some of them as well as add new ones. Going forward, the series schedule will look something like this:

Monday: It’s a surprise for now, but a new series will begin in February, with a once monthly feature on the first Monday of the month.

Travel Exclusive Tuesdays: Another new series, which will also begin in February. Again, it won’t be every Tuesday. Maybe about once a month or thereabouts.

Brand Spotlights Wednesdays: I’ve decided to limit Brand Spotlights to only those brands that are completely (or nearly completely) new to me. Therefore, there probably won’t be as many Brand Spotlights as there were before. Of course, I’ll continue to review anything that interests me but the “Brand Spotlight” designation will be restricted in the manner mentioned.

Foundation Fridays: About twice a month, I want to feature a new foundation review. A girl can only own so many foundations – so I can’t promise that there will always be two per month but for the near future, anyway, there are a decent number in my collection that I have yet to review.

Sample Saturdays: The Instagram only Sample Saturdays Series where I feature mini reviews of packet samples will continue.

Skincare Sundays: Skincare reviews will move to Sundays. Of course, this doesn’t prejudice skincare that may also form part of a Brand Spotlight, Travel Exclusive or Sample Saturday post.

Do you guys have a beauty budget? What do you think about the concept or “low buys” or “no buys”? Do you participate in them or are they just a silly title to refer to something that’s pretty much common sense? Lol.

Anyway, that’s it for now guys! I hope that I can continue to grow and improve this blog and I thank you all for your continued support!

All items featured in this post were purchased by the author unless otherwise noted. Any products or services provided as PR will be marked with an asterisk "*". This website uses Skimlinks and this post may contain affiliate links.

I’m feelin’ ya, Kimmy! Yesterday I was cleaning my dressing table and swapping around products from my table to my Ikea Alex drawers.. it hit me how much my stash has grown over 2014. My collection would fit into one large makeup bag in 2013.. now my dressing table doesn’t do it anymore! I’m also very overwhelmed by the new collections coming out and just like you I’m only picking out the things that really peak my interest (currently Hourglass Modernist and a Dior Kingdom of Colours eyeshadow palette.. not exactly the cheapest purchases..). I could never give myself a ‘spending ban’, it’s simply impossible for me to resist. But a low buy mentality is a good one!

I’m looking forward to your new series.. lots of great posts incoming! I cannot wait! xx

Your comment really, really is so much appreciated, Silke. It helps to know that others share in some of the feelings I’m having. Something about these new spring collections really did it me this year. Is it me, or does it seem like there are more than usual? I settled on five items from different brands. I can’t say I won’t pick up more (I am thinking of the very Hourglass Modernist palettes you mentioned, hehe) but narrowing it down that way relieved some of my anxiety for sure. And yes, I’m growing out of my makeup space as well – have to come up with a new storage solution this year. 🙂 xo

KIMMY you are so right. Yet another sign we are totally insync (just like JT) my beauty spending got a little crazy at the end of last month (as did my spending in all other areas too.)
I have not heard of the low/no-buys movement, I like it because it limits it but only for a certain time. I’m always like ‘I need to stop’ but never do, I think say I nee to cut down for 3 months is heaps for reasonable and realistic.
AS always, love your thoughts!
Kelsey x

It’s always puzzling figuring where to draw the line of self-control! But, I always feel such a relief when I’m more price conscious… until I find that thing I LOVE. I need to restrict myself from certain part sof town, I suppose. lol. Happy New Year Dear! (:

Lol. I like that, restricting yourself to certain parts of town. I suppose it’s a blessing that I have limited shopping options now that I’m back home. When I lived in the States, forget about it. It was much more difficult to limit myself. Indeed, it can be challenging to draw the line…but I suppose the first step is being conscience that there is a line. 🙂 xo

Hey Kimmy, I’ve actually never done a low buy or no buy! I can go months without buying much, but I can also go a little nuts during a short period of time! Anyways, good luck with your low buy! I also really admire your dedication to making so many features for your blog. I really only have one (Perfume Monday), and the rest depends on what I feel like I have to get out of the way sooner haha

Hehe. When I first moved back home, I could go months without shopping either as I wasn’t aware of all the new shopping opportunities yet. 🙂 My biggest challenge is online shopping. Thank you for your kind words regarding the series. I hope that they are enjoyable for readers…and they really help me stay organized! BTW Your perfume Mondays are the best! xo

I did a no buy for one month over summer. When the month ended, I bought all the things off the list after the ban was lifted. So, did not serve it’s purpose. This year, I am going to really tame things down, and get control of what I already have! Good luck to you sweetie!

Thanks, hun. I appreciate the encouragement. 🙂 And good luck to you too. I’m going to try not to have too much of a running wish list because as you say, it runs the risk of just getting everything when the low-buy/no-buy is over.

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